McLeod Eco Farm, French Island VICTORIA
Airing Date: Apr 30th, 2002
Historically, French Island is famous for the mid-security jail that operated here for 59 years. It only creased operation in 1975.
Today it is the McLeod Eco Farm that keeps visitors captive. The McLeod's did extensive renovations to the jail. The old cells have been transformed into budget accommodation and are a steal at just $25 per person per night.
The farm has been operating since 1997 and offers a unique organic farm stay experience.
The 220-hectare farm is set in the middle of the French Island National Park and as well as doing time in the historic jail visitors are free to explore at their leisure.
There are 120 free-range chooks to feed and literally countless eggs to collect. There is also one and a half acres of luscious vegetable gardens where more than 1,500 varieties of fruit and vegetable are organically grown. It is this produce that is used in all the meals during your stay so it's bound to be a healthy trip.
With over 40 kilometres of bike trails around the island there is no excuse for not going for an afternoon pedal.
Or if golf takes your fancy why not test your swing on Australia's first and only organic 9-hole golf course where the greens and fairways are 100% pesticide free.
French Island is also home to the world's largest disease-free koala population.
The facts
Qantas flies to Melbourne daily from all capital cites. Prices start from $176 ex Sydney return and $462 ex Perth. Additional taxes, levies and charges apply.
Qantas
Tel: 13 13 13
Website: qantas.com
At the McLeod Eco Farm bunk rooms start from $25 per person per night. Guest House accommodation costs from $50 per person per night. Mountain bikes can be hired from $12.50 per day.
McLeod Eco Farm
Tel: 03 5678 0155
A 75-minute boat trip from Phillip Island to French Island costs $22.50 per person.
Tourism Victoria Info line
Tel: 13 28 42
Website: www.visitvictoria.com
